• There is a fire in someone's home in Ohio every half hour. Each year more than 200 people die in fires and more than $200 million is destroyed by fire in this state alone.
• Older people are at greater risk. The risk of fire death for Ohioans age 65 and over is three times greater than the risk for adults under 65.
• Hospital stays of more then 40 days are common for elderly burn victims.

• Heating Sources, like furnaces, wood stoves and space heaters
• Cooking
• Arson
• Electrical distribution
• Careless smoking

• 80 percent of all fire deaths take place in residences not equipped with working smoke detectors.
• Smoke detectors can provide early warning of fires, allowing time for individuals to escape and firefighters to arrive before the fire grows.

• Smoke detectors are inexpensive - many models rance in prices from $10 to $20, and can be purchased at most hardware and department stores.
• Smoke detectors make thoughtful gifts for friends and relatives.

• Smoke detectors should be installed on each level of your home.
• Smoke detectors are easy to install. Simply follow the manufacturer's instructions. Normally you only have to secure the detector with a few screws … which takes just minutes. If you need assistance, ask a neighbor, relative, or the local fire department.

• Once a month smoke detectors should be tested. Most have a test button to press. Or, you can use the smoke of a candle beneath the detector until you hear the alarm.
• Replace batteries once a year.
• When you clean your house don't forget your smoke detectors. Simply use the vacuum cleaner to clean dust away from the detector's air vents.

• Fire prevention is still the best method of fire safety, and since some older people have problems moving quickly - and suffer more when injuries and smoke inhalation occur - it is essential to prevent fires from happening at all.
• Plan two escape routes from your home or apartment and practice this plan.
• Never smoke in bed. Don't smoke in your favorite, comfortable chair when you feel drowsy or drink alcohol.
• Do not empty ashtrays that may contain smoldering materials until they are completely out.
• Don't wear loose - fitting clothing when cooking over a stove and never leave your cooking unattended - even for a moment … be sure all the burners are off when you have finished.
• Do not use towels as potholders. They ignite easily if they are placed too near a burner.
• Place a rubber mat in front of your stove, to prevent you from slipping and falling against it.
• A circuit breaker or fuse that constantly trips or blows may be a sign of a possible electrical problem. Call an electrician or other qualified person to check the wiring.
• Keep anything that might burn away from space heaters.
• Check all appliance cords for fraying and exposed wires.
• Sleep with your bedroom door closed. This helps keep any smoke and flame from reaching you.
• Keep your eyeglasses, a flashlight, and a whistle near your bed. Your glasses and flashlight can help you escape. If trapped, blowing the whistle can alert firefighters to your location.
• In a fire, smoke and heat usually rise; so bend low, or crawl, if necessary, and get out quickly.
• If your clothes catch on fire, cover your face, drop to the floor and roll until the flames have gone out. Or drape a large blanket or towel around your body to extinguish the flames.

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